Newminster Abbey

Newminster Abbey is a Cistercian monastery ruin near Morpeth with surviving sections of the cloister featuring paired slender columns and sandstone arches in both pointed and rounded styles. These remains stand close to the River Wansbeck and show the layout of a medieval religious community's living spaces.

Founded in 1137, the abbey grew into a wealthy institution controlling extensive lands with fishing and salt production rights. After its dissolution in the 16th century, the estate was leased out and building stones from the ruins were reused for other construction.

The site drew pilgrims who visited the burial place of its first abbot and reported witnessing miracles there. This religious importance made it a major pilgrimage destination across the region.

The ruins stand on private land with limited access, best viewed from a nearby hillside or along the western boundary footpath. Visitors should respect the private property boundaries when exploring the site.

After its closure in the 16th century, the abbey estate passed to the Grey family who quarried stones from the ruins for their own building projects. This repurposing of the sacred site shows how properties were exploited in the post-Reformation era.

Location: Morpeth

Inception: 12 century

Founders: Ralph de Merlay

GPS coordinates: 55.16640,-1.70441

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:03